1. Brush twice a day.
Brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes each time. Aim to spend 30 seconds on each quadrant of your mouth (upper right, lower right, upper left, lower left). Ideally, you should brush when you wake up each morning and before you go to bed each night.
2. Floss once a day.
Flossing removes debris from between your teeth that your toothbrush can't reach. You should floss before brushing so that any food or plaque you dislodge can then be brushed away. Flossing every night minimizes the risk of tooth decay between your teeth, and keeps your gums healthy.
3. Visit the dentist regularly.
You should plan to visit your dentist for a hygiene cleaning and oral exams every six months. These appointments give your teeth a professional deep cleaning and allow your dentist to identify and treat any issues that may be developing.
4. Eat a healthy diet.
Eating healthy is good for your whole body, including your teeth. A diet that's high in calcium and low in sugar will help keep your teeth healthy and strong. Foods that are beneficial for your oral health include leafy greens, carrots, apples, almonds, yogurt, and cheese.
5. Avoid sugary drinks.
Drinking sugary beverages, like pop, on a regular basis can increase your risk of cavities. Instead, drink primarily water and try leaving sugary drinks for occasional treats.
6. Stay hydrated.
Drinking plenty of water can help prevent cavities. Staying hydrated helps you maintain a flow of saliva which washes away food particles that collect on your teeth. These particles allow bacteria to grow.
7. Add mouthwash to your routine.
Rinsing with mouthwash is a good addition to your daily brushing and flossing routine. It can help to kill bacteria in your mouth that can cause issues like cavities and gum disease.
8. Replace your toothbrush regularly.
You should change your toothbrush at least once every three months. You may consider replacing it sooner if the bristles have become damaged or frayed. You should also swap out your toothbrush for a fresh time after you recover from an illness as it could be harboring germs.
9. Don’t smoke.
One of the best things you can do for your oral health is to quit smoking. Not only does it stain your teeth, but it also increases the risk of oral cancer and gum disease.
10. Examine your mouth at home.
Try to examine the inside of your mouth regularly. If you notice anything that looks out of the ordinary such as lumps, bumps, or unhealed sores, make an appointment to get it checked by your dentist.